Boeing Co. is currently assessing its Starliner operations, which could result in the company exiting a significant NASA program. This evaluation is a critical moment for Boeing as it considers its future in the commercial space sector amidst competition from SpaceX.
The review is part of Boeing's CEO Kelly Ortberg's efforts to streamline the company's portfolio, generate cash, and address underperforming units. The Starliner program has faced challenges, including cost overruns and delays, leading to speculation about its potential unwinding or sale.
Analysts caution that a reduced Boeing presence could make the U.S. government heavily reliant on SpaceX for crewed space missions, potentially impacting astronaut transport to the International Space Station.